North Carolina leaders considering Name, Image and Likeness policy for high-schoolers

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) – The North Carolina Board of Education is proposing new rules for middle and high school athletes when it comes to profiting from their name, image and likeness (NIL).

Previously, the state temporarily banned NIL payments at public schools, but state leaders met Wednesday to go over the new rules. On Thursday, the board will vote on whether to move forward with them before a final vote in January.

Under the proposed NIL rules, student-athletes would be able to do things like public appearances, sign autographs or endorse products – although there are strict rules on things they are unable to endorse. That includes things like drugs, alcohol and tobacco.

Student-athletes would also be unable to reference their school or appear in their school uniform. They would also be prohibited from putting any third-party logo on a school uniform.

Before reaching any potential deals, students would be required to notify coaches and school officials, plus complete a course on NIL rules.

During Wednesday’s meeting, board members had concerns about school districts having to monitor and enforce the rules.

“It concerns me that the onus or reporting the existence of the NILs and the onus for monitoring, detecting and reporting violations of these rules falls on the shoulders of local school people,” Dr. Michael Williams said.

As for next steps, after the Board of Education votes on the proposed rules, there will be a public comment period from Oct. 1 through Dec. 6. A virtual public hearing will happen Nov. 8 at 10 a.m. Then, the Board of Education is scheduled to vote on adopting or rejecting the permanent rules on Jan. 9.

If the board adopts the new rules, they would not go into effect until the 2025-2026 school year.

In February, the NC Independent Schools Athletic Association (NCISAA), which governs private school athletics, approved a policy allowing student-athletes at those schools to profit off NIL.

NC private school leaders approve policy allowing athletes to profit off NIL

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